Trade Unions Skilled Labor Careers

Trade Unions

Trade unions are an organization of workers who join together to protect and advance their rights, interests, and working conditions. It acts as a collective voice for its members, negotiating with employers on issues like wages, benefits, hours, and workplace safety. These unions also provide support in cases of disputes or unfair treatment at work.

By uniting workers, a trade union strengthens their bargaining power, enabling them to advocate for fair treatment and improved standards. Unions often work to secure better pay, job security, and policies that promote equality and worker well-being.

Membership in a trade union typically involves paying dues, which fund the union’s activities. These organizations play a key role in ensuring that workers’ rights are upheld and that they are treated with dignity and respect in the workplace.

Learn more about trade unions in North America, go to NABTU (North American Building Trade Unions)

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Scroll below to explore the different skilled trade unions in America & the trades they represent.

UA Union

The UA (United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry) is a labor union that represents workers in skilled trades related to piping systems. Founded in 1889, it includes plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters, sprinkler fitters, and HVAC technicians. The UA provides training, apprenticeship programs, and collective bargaining for better wages, benefits, and workplace safety. Its members work in various sectors, including construction, industrial plants, and residential and commercial building maintenance.

Job Outlook: Expected growth of 5% from 2022 to 2032
Potential/Average Salary:The median annual wage is around $60,000 to $75,000 *These numbers vary by state & city

Iron Workers Union

The Iron Workers Union, officially known as the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers, is a labor union that represents ironworkers in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. It advocates for workers in the construction industry, including those involved in erecting steel structures, bridges, and reinforcing concrete. The union negotiates for better wages, benefits, and working conditions, and provides training programs for apprentices. Founded in 1896, it has grown to be a prominent organization for ironworkers.

Job Outlook: Expected growth of 4% (2022-2032)
Average Salary: $58,550 per year
Potential Salary: Experienced workers or those in high-demand regions can earn $80,000+ annually. *These numbers vary by state & city.

IBEW Union

The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) is a labor union that represents electrical workers across various industries. Founded in 1891, it supports over 775,000 members in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The IBEW advocates for electricians, linemen, substation technicians, utility workers, and other trades within the electrical field. It ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, and professional training through apprenticeships and ongoing education, helping its members achieve long-term career growth and success in the electrical industry.

Job Outlook: Expected growth of 4-7% from 2022 to 2032 due to increased construction and renewable energy projects.
Average Salary: $65,070 per year, with experienced or specialized members earning over $100,000 annually in certain regions. *These numbers can vary by state & city

IUEC Union

The International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) is a labor union that represents workers involved in the construction, modernization, repair, and maintenance of elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other vertical transportation systems. Established in 1901, the IUEC advocates for the rights, safety, and well-being of its members by negotiating collective bargaining agreements, ensuring fair wages, and promoting workplace safety standards. The union also provides training and apprenticeship programs to maintain high industry standards. The IUEC represents thousands of skilled professionals across North America, ensuring that essential vertical transportation systems operate safely and efficiently for the public.

Job Outlook/ Projected Growth: Expected growth of 4%, slightly above average, due to urban development and aging infrastructure.
Average Salary: Around $88,000 annually (median pay in 2023) or more, depending on experience and location. Over $100k for experience mechanics. *These numbers can vary by state & city

UBC Union

The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) is a labor union representing skilled tradespeople in the construction industry. Founded in 1881, the UBC advocates for carpenters, millwrights, pile drivers, floor coverers, cabinet makers, and other related professionals. The union focuses on improving wages, benefits, and working conditions while providing members with specialized training and certifications through apprenticeship and education programs. UBC members are integral to building and maintaining infrastructure, from residential homes to large commercial projects. With a strong commitment to worker advocacy and safety, the UBC plays a vital role in advancing the construction industry.

Job Outlook: 7% growth from 2022 to 2032
Average Salary: Approximately $50-80k annually. *These numbers can vary by state & city

SMART Union

The SMART Union (Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers) is a labor union that represents a diverse group of workers in the trades. It primarily represents employees in the sheet metal, air conditioning, and HVAC industries, as well as workers in railroads and transportation. SMART members work in fields such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation, including train conductors and mechanics. The union advocates for fair wages, benefits, safety, and better working conditions for its members across various industries. It is one of the largest and most influential unions in North America.

Job Outlook: 6% growth from 2023 to 2032, driven by ongoing construction and maintenance demands.
Average Salary: $60k annually; experienced sheet metals workers can earn over $80,000. *These numbers can vary by state & city

ILWU Union

The ILWU (International Longshore and Warehouse Union) is a labor union that represents workers in various sectors related to shipping and logistics. Founded in 1937, it primarily represents longshore workers, dockworkers, and warehouse workers involved in the loading and unloading of cargo at ports. Additionally, the ILWU includes workers in industries such as transportation, grain handling, and other related sectors. The union is known for advocating for fair wages, working conditions, and safety standards for its members, particularly those in the Pacific Coast region of the United States..

Job Outlook: 3% growth from 2023 to 2032.
Average Salary: $64,000 annually; experienced workers can earn over $100,000. *These numbers can vary by state & city

IOUE Union

The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) is a labor union that represents skilled tradespeople who operate heavy machinery and equipment in the construction, mining, and industrial sectors. The union represents workers who operate cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and other heavy equipment, as well as those involved in plant operations, stationary engineers, and maintenance workers. IUOE also represents some professionals in the public sector, such as water treatment plant operators. The union advocates for workers’ rights, safety, and fair wages through collective bargaining and contracts.

Job Outlook & Salary:

Job Outlook: Expected growth of 5% from 2022 to 2032.
Average Salary: Around $56,650 per year.
Potential Salary: Experienced operators can earn over $100,000 annually in some regions. *These numbers can vary by state & city

UAW Union

The UAW (United Auto Workers) is a labor union in the United States that represents workers in various industries, primarily in automotive manufacturing. Founded in 1935, it advocates for the rights of workers, including better wages, benefits, and working conditions. The UAW represents employees in industries like automobile, aerospace, agriculture, and higher education. While the union is most well-known for representing auto workers at major companies like General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis, it also includes workers in other sectors, such as healthcare and public services.

Job Outlook: 4% growth into 2032.
Average Salary: $44,000–$55,000 per year, with potential for experienced workers to earn over $70,000. *These numbers can vary by state & city

IBT Union

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) is one of the largest and most diverse labor unions in North America. Founded in 1903, it represents workers across various industries, including freight, trucking, construction, airline workers, warehouse workers, and public sector employees. The IBT advocates for fair wages, benefits, job security, and safe working conditions. Its members work in a wide range of fields, from drivers and dock workers to healthcare professionals and educators. The union strives to improve the lives of working people through collective bargaining and political activism.

Job Outlook: Moderate growth, driven by demand in construction, logistics, and agriculture. 29% expected growth into 2032.
Potential/Average Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year. *These numbers can vary by state & city

LIUNA Union

The Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) is a prominent labor union that represents workers in various construction and infrastructure industries. LIUNA members include laborers, equipment operators, and other skilled and unskilled workers involved in sectors such as construction, energy, environmental services, and public works. The union advocates for workers’ rights, better wages, safety, and benefits. It provides training and apprenticeship programs to ensure workers develop the necessary skills for success in their fields. LIUNA plays a critical role in improving working conditions for its diverse membership.

Job Outlook: 2% growth from 2022 to 2032, slower than average.
Average Salary: Approximately $65,000 per year. *These numbers can vary by state & city

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